Nairo had played as comparatively unpopular character Dr. Mario for the majority of the tournament, but reserved his usual main character, Zero Suit Samus, for taking on the champion. Using a combination of throws and Up+B combos, he was able to defeat Zer0 after nine games in two sets: 3-2, 3-1.

“I was confident in this set,” Nairo said in an MLG post match interview. “He won all the other sets. I was consistent in landing more grabs I guess. I’m just speechless.”

On Twitter, Zer0 said:

Hope you guys enjoyed watching! It was a ton of fun!
I'm feeling great actually. I tried my best but it wasn't enough! No shame in that!

The MLG Finals took place in New Orleans, Louisiana, over the weekend, with players competing for over $500,000 in prizes. Nairo picked up $4,000 for his victory, as well as the first place trophy and – not least – a good deal of street cred in the pro gaming community.

Zer0 had previously announced a break from pro gaming, but reversed his decision in early October, saying: “Time to go all in. Gonna be the greatest or a buster. Lets do this.”